Prospect Talent Score

Probability of Success

History

2004-05: Playing for the Honeybaked Midget Major (Michigan), Rust recorded 40 points (16 goals, 24 assists) in 50 games.

2005-06: Rust, who emerged as a talented defensive forward, played for the U-17 squad, scoring 29 points (16 goals, 13 assists) in 68 games. He was a member of the silver medal winning U-17 squad at the 2006 World U-17 Hockey Challenge where in seven games he recorded a goal and an assist.

2006-07: Rust played in 20 fewer games in 06-07 than he did in 05-06, but he still equaled his point total from the prior year, only this year he did it playing for the U-18 team.In 48 games, Rust recorded 29 points (12 goals, 17 assists) and 77 PIM.Three of his 12 goals came on the power play, and two of his goals were game winners.He finished in the top 10 on the NTDP in goals, assists, points, PIM, and game winning goals.Rust played very well against NCAA opponents.In 22 games Rust recorded 11 goals (two goals, nine assists) and 16 PIM.Both of his goals were power play goals.His nine assists were top five on the NTDP against NTDP opponents.NHL Central Scouting ranks the 5’10 forward 167 overall. Drafted in the 4th round (101st overall), 2007 by Florida.

2007-08: Excelled in all areas such as the penalty kill. Even on the Wolverines’ “energy” line, Rust compiled a commendable 12 goals and 11 assists as a freshman.
2008-09: In his sophomore season for the University of Michigan, Rust appeared in 37 games with 11 goals, 11 assists for 22 points. He cut down on the PIMs with only 39 during the year.

2009-10: Rust skated in 45 games for Michigan in his junior season and had career-highs with 13 goals, 27 assists, and 40 points. He was traded to Columbus at the 2010 NHL trade deadline.

Talent Analysis

Rust plays a strong, gritty two-way game. He is quick, reads the play well, and demonstrates solid offensive upside.